TV programme «Case»: experts examine rising hostile rhetoric toward migrants in Latvia
A new episode of the LSM programme «Case» looks at why insults, suspicion and accusations directed at migrants are becoming louder in Latvia, and what role politicians play in fuelling this rhetoric.
Latvia has recently seen a noticeable rise in hostile and prejudiced attitudes toward migrants, with insults, suspicion and accusations increasingly directed at this group. Such rhetoric has become systematic, and it is often expressed without restraint.
This trend is the focus of the latest episode of the programme «Case», titled «Risk or Opportunity?». Together with invited experts, the programme's creators try to answer why hate speech toward newcomers is growing louder in Latvia, and why the phenomenon has intensified rather than faded.
The role of politicians
One of the themes highlighted in the episode is the contribution of politicians to shaping this rhetoric. According to the programme, politicians do not merely fail to ease tensions — they systematically add to them, speaking publicly about migrants in a sharp and unrestrained tone. Such behaviour is described as pouring further fuel on an already tense public debate.
The experts featured in the programme attempt to determine whether the negative rhetoric reflects genuine public concern or functions instead as a political tool for shaping public sentiment. The discussion also touches on how such language affects the daily lives of migrants themselves and their place within Latvian society.
«Case» is part of LSM's ongoing content addressing current social issues, offering an in-depth perspective with the help of experts. This episode focuses on how media, politics and public opinion together shape perceptions of migrants in Latvia, and what long-term consequences this may carry.
